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As I'm sitting here working on my laptop at the local library👩🏽‍💻, I can't help but notice how technology has become a significant aspect of everyone's lives. I scan the library and see a group of children working on the public computers; some even have a smartphone handy. Don't get me wrong—I'm not against technology. In fact, I believe that with proper understanding, technology can be quite beneficial to us.

However, what concerns me is seeing many kids using technology without their parents actively involved. With social media being so easily accessible, there must be a way in which parents can be more involved in their child’s technology use while also having a healthy boundary.

We know as a society, that being able to operate a smart device is essential and lets me honest a part of life. The way technology is advancing and is a huge part of almost every job in America in some form of another, using technology is a skill. But without proper regulation, it can be quite a hinderance.

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Looking at these stats, it's clear that tech is just a part of our kids' world. Let's figure out how we can jump in and be a positive part of it together!

Now, Let’s look into some ways in which you can be more able to become a more active participant in your child’s technology useage.

• Open Conversation: Having a genuine, heart-to-heart chat with your child, led by empathy, is the secret sauce for building trust. Let's face it—no one likes pouring their heart out to someone who's closed off and thinks they know it all about social media and technology. When you let your child express themselves without judgment, you'll discover they're more likely to be open and honest about their social media experiences. Ensure you don't force a heart-to-heart talk. Consider the conversations you may have avoided with your parents or teachers due to a lack of foundational trust. Contrast this with topics where you did trust them, such as health concerns. When you were younger, the first person you turned to for a doctor-related issue was often your parent because of the trust established in that area. Strive to establish the same level of trust your child has in health with regard to technology.

• Set Boundaries and safety measures: Consider implementing age-appropriate safety measures to enhance your child's digital experience. Given the expansive and diverse content available on the internet, effective management can prove challenging. By proactively blocking access to adult or inappropriate content, we can contribute to fostering a secure and tailored technological environment for our children. While undertaking this, engage in an open conversation with your kids, using open-ended questions to grasp their perspectives. By asking the appropriate questions and explaining the reasons behind your actions, they're likely to agree with you, appreciate your willingness to listen, and hold you in higher regard. Even if the immediate benefits aren't evident, the collaborative approach, avoiding imposition, and fostering teamwork will leave a lasting impression on them.

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